Interview with illusionist Tenko Hikita (aka Princess Tenko)
I was reading through the Japan Times website when I came across this excellent and informative interview with a woman called Tenko Hikita, or Princess Tenko as she’s known to her audiences. Her age and place of birth are unknown because of contracutal 
conditions, and it seems that contracts rule her life. They state that she should always look 24 years old, dictate her hair length to the nearest millimetre, that she can only marry a U.S. citizen and many more. She has performed in a number of countries, and has even performed in North Korea and has spoken to Kim Jong Il (who apparently owns all 8 Princess Tenko dolls). Even if you’ve not heard of this girl, the interview is a great informative read and really makes you feel for those in the spotlight whose actions and appearance are completely dictated by others. The photo on the right is courtesy of Yoshiaki Miura Photos.
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/fl20070204×1.html
Take the time to read the interview and let me know what you think.
or Discuss this Article
Interesting Dave.
I really enjoy reading about those Japanese stories that you come up with. Please keep them coming.
Kinda love the weird stuff.
I’m trying to write a little more about Japan (i.e. not just about diving) and especially the side that might interest people. If you’ve any requests on topics then let me know and I’ll try to look into it.
Hi Dave,
I for one, would welcome this very much. The Japanese culture is very interesting and sofar you’ve come up with some interesting samples.
Japanese underground music would be of interest to me, or Japanese music in general. Than again, whenever you see something that you deem of interest, share it. As mentioned before, you’ve come up with some interesting and good stuff already.
How about some Okinawa back ground information. Is there a museum about WWII? Did the recent movie by Clint Eastwood have an impact at all?
Is Mike Myers known at all in Japan?
I think some of the Japanese know of Mike Myers and Austin Powers, but I expect it’s mostly the Japanese that have been exposed to the west somehow (either having western boyfriends/girlfriends or having lived abroad for some time).
I could write some stuff about Japanese music, although undergroung music would be tough. All that sort of stuff happens in Tokyo, Osaka, Kobe etc. Okinawa is a little out in the countryside and isn’t really subjected to that sort of thing.
I can certainly provide some background information about Okinawa though. I’ll try to post some of that in the not-too-distant future.
A girl after my own heart. I want to be 24 forever too! I’d have managed it too if I didn’t have a younger brother, who is now 26!!